Top 10 Possible Reasons Behind the Tragic Air India AI-171 Crash
The crash of Air India flight AI-171 has left a nation in mourning and the world searching for answers. With 242 lives lost, including former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani, the tragedy demands a deep dive into what went wrong. Aviation experts worldwide are examining the possible causes — from technical malfunctions to human error.
A Skyward Dream Ends in Fire
Air India flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12, 2025. The tragedy claimed all 242* lives on board, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. The aircraft reportedly achieved only 672 feet of altitude before losing lift and crashing in a residential neighborhood, erupting into a fireball visible for miles.
While investigations are ongoing, aviation professionals worldwide are looking closely at the circumstances surrounding this incident.
Drawing from past data, expert analysis, and preliminary eyewitness reports, we explore 10 likely contributing factors behind this catastrophe.
1. Engine Failure at Critical Phase of Flight
Takeoff is one of the riskiest phases of flight. A dual or uneven engine failure at low altitude leaves almost no room for recovery. In AI-171’s case, early footage suggests thrust imbalance—possibly from a flameout or uncontained failure.
The 787’s Trent 1000 engines have previously faced issues like blade corrosion and cracking. If the failure happened before V2 speed (takeoff safety speed), it could have severely affected the aircraft’s climb and control.
See the video footage capturing the tragic crash of Air India flight IC 171 near Ahmedabad.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/SwC9xHM3zU4?si=iw0dc8_tX5F0OrqU
Video Source: NDTV (via YouTube)
2. Malfunction of Flight Control Systems
The Dreamliner uses advanced fly-by-wire systems with built-in redundancies. But if there’s a glitch in the software or a feedback issue with control surfaces, it can override pilot commands. Even in high-tech jets, automation errors can pose serious risks if not properly managed.
The MCAS system in the 737 MAX shows how automated systems can fail when sensors mislead them. If autopilot glitches, trim runs uncontrolled, or the elevator jams, the plane can become unstable during takeoff. It’s a powerful lesson in how complex automation must be carefully monitored and designed.
3. Bird Strike Resulting in Catastrophic Damage
Ahmedabad airport has long faced problems with birds near surrounding wetlands. A strong bird strike—especially into an engine or the pitot-static system—can cause engine failure or give false airspeed readings. Incidents like US Airways Flight 1549 (“Miracle on the Hudson”) and Ural Airlines Flight 178 show that emergency landings can succeed in open areas. But in crowded urban zones, like those near Ahmedabad, there’s little to no room for such maneuvers.
4. Fuel Contamination or Supply Interruption
Fuel quality is a critical concern in commercial aviation, especially at busy international airports. Contaminated jet fuel—whether with water or debris—can cause engine flameouts during high thrust demand. Beyond contamination, issues like a failed booster pump or clogged filters in the fuel delivery system can also lead to sudden power loss, putting both performance and safety at serious risk.
5. Structural or Aerodynamic Failure
The Boeing 787’s carbon-fiber reinforced plastic fuselage and wings provide advantages in fuel efficiency and weight. However, composite fatigue and delamination under stress have raised concerns. If a wing surface, flap, or slat component failed structurally, it could alter the aircraft’s lift profile instantly.
Investigators will examine the debris field to determine if structural components detached mid-air.
6. Pitot-Static System Failure
Reliable airspeed readings are crucial during climb. A blocked pitot tube or erroneous AoA (Angle of Attack) data can trigger false stall warnings or prevent correct autothrottle engagement. Such failures may lead the aircraft into a low-energy state and aerodynamic stall without adequate warning.
If the crew responded based on misleading data, recovery would be unlikely at low altitude.
7. Inadequate Weight and Balance Management
Takeoff performance is highly sensitive to the aircraft’s weight distribution. Improper loading of baggage or cargo, erroneous entry of passenger weights, or last-minute changes unaccounted for in the flight management system can lead to a tail-heavy condition.
In such cases, pitch control may become ineffective, and the aircraft could enter a nose-high, power-starved stall.
8. Maintenance Oversight or Technical Lapses
Aviation safety records consistently link major accidents to latent maintenance errors. If a recurring technical snag — say, in an actuator or hydraulic line — was deferred without resolution, it could manifest catastrophically during flight.
Investigators will probe maintenance logs, deferred defect reports, and last service intervals.
9. Human Factors: Pilot Fatigue or Misjudgment
Although AI-171 was flown by a senior captain, human factors still play a crucial role. During high-stress phases like takeoff, even experienced pilots can misread instruments or misjudge a situation. Fatigue, distraction, or reduced situational awareness—especially under sudden technical failure—can delay critical decisions.
In aviation, training helps, but high workload environments always leave room for human error.
10. Malicious Interference or Cyber Intrusion
Though rare, the chance of hostile interference—whether physical or digital—is being considered. Modern aircraft depend heavily on digital fly-by-wire systems and satellite communications, which could, in theory, be vulnerable to cyberattacks.
Investigators will closely examine any signs of unauthorized control inputs, signal jamming, or deliberate disruptions as part of the inquiry.
The Road Ahead: Black Box Analysis and Global Oversight
Authorities have recovered the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR). Analysis of these black boxes will be pivotal in reconstructing the final moments. Boeing, the DGCA (India), and international aviation agencies, including the FAA ( via technical support) and NTSB are participating in the investigation.
Pending the findings, aviation experts urge a global review of takeoff safety protocols, maintenance enforcement, and crew alertness standards.
Bottom Line: Tragedy Rooted in Complexity
In aviation, disasters are rarely caused by a single failure. More often, they are the result of a heartbreaking chain of events — technical glitches, human misjudgments, and systemic lapses — aligning in the worst possible way. The Air India AI-171 crash is a devastating reminder of this reality.
As we mourn the 242 lives lost, including that of former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani, this tragedy must mark more than grief. It must be a global call to action. For engineers, pilots, regulators, and passengers alike, it serves as a painful but vital turning point — a moment to reaffirm our collective commitment to safety, accountability, and reform.
Let this not be just another aviation statistic. Let it be the reason we strive harder to ensure that such irreversible loss never happens again.
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Disclaimer: The insights and analysis presented in this article are based on publicly available information and the author’s 13 years of professional experience in ground operations within the aviation industry, serving multiple international airlines. While every effort has been made to ensure factual accuracy and objective interpretation, this article does not represent the official findings of any aviation authority or investigative body. All opinions expressed are solely those of the author and are intended for informational purposes only.
